Stops and Starts is a great drill for introducing stops as a change in direction. Encourage players to use their outside edge to stop before turning towards their new target.
Description
Coach draws lines on the ice to designate starting point for the players and places 4 cones in front of the line. 2 cones staggered and a far in line with the line.
Players line up behind the starting line and skate to the first cone performing a stop before moving onto the next cone.
Once the player has stopped in both directions they skate around the far cone and return to line.
Once a player is past the second cone the next player may go.
Have players practice using their outside edge in 3 progressions
- T-Stops (outside edge behind)
- One foot
- Punch stop (outside edge in front)
Key Points
Load edges with pressure by bending knees and dropping hips slightly.
Ankle bend on foot making the stop so that skate is on outside edge.
Use leg strength to push down on the ice and scrape.
Encourage players to make snow by stopping.
Change direction by turning torso toward the new trajectory.
Take off by driving knees and getting up on toes.
